Manchester United return to Old Trafford on Thursday, January 23, 2025, to host Scottish Premier League giants Rangers FC in a highly anticipated UEFA Europa League clash under the floodlights. Africa Football’s editor Allan Damba looks into upcoming clash.
In the newly revamped 36-team Europa League competition, Manchester United sit seventh with 12 points from six matches. Meanwhile, Rangers, just one point behind, occupy eighth place.
Both teams will be eager to secure a top-eight finish, guaranteeing an automatic spot in the Round of 16. Anything less than a win could push either side into a playoff to compete for progression to the next stage.
In their most recent Europa League outing, Manchester United secured a 2-1 victory over Viktoria Plzeň, thanks to a Rasmus Højlund brace. On the other hand, Rangers held Tottenham to a 1-1 draw, with Hamza Igamane finding the net for the Scottish side.
Manchester United Recent Form Analysis
Manchester United have struggled for consistency, managing just one win in their last five matches across all competitions. That victory came against Southampton in the Premier League. During this period, they have drawn twice, lost twice, scored seven goals, and conceded nine. Ruben Amorim’s side also suffered a 3-1 defeat to Brighton over the weekend.
Last Five Games: 1 win, 2 draws, 2 losses
Latest Result: Manchester United 1-3 Brighton
Rangers Recent Form Analysis
Rangers, in contrast, are in excellent form, unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions. They have won four and drawn one, scoring 14 goals while conceding only three. Their latest performance saw them dominate Fraserburgh with a 5-0 victory in the Scottish Cup.
Last Five Games: 4 wins, 1 draw
Latest Result: Rangers 5-0 Fraserburgh
Head-to-Head Record
- Rangers 0-2 Manchester United
- Rangers 0-1 Manchester United
- Manchester United 0-0 Rangers
- Manchester United 3-0 Rangers
- Rangers 0-1 Manchester United
Prediction for Manchester United vs Rangers
Separated by a single point in the Europa League standings, this promises to be a closely contested tie. However, Manchester United’s quality and determination to revive their season may give them the edge in front of their home fans.
Recommended Bets:
- Home Win (Manchester United): 1.47 (1xBet)
- Over 2.5 Goals: 1.65 (1xBet)
Player to Watch
Amad Diallo – The Ivorian international has been a standout player for Manchester United under Ruben Amorim this season. The 22-year-old has contributed nine goals and seven assists in 31 appearances, excelling both as a playmaker and in a wingback role. Expect him to play a pivotal role in United’s quest for victory against Rangers.
Best Odds and Betting Tips
Here are the top tips for this match:
- Home Win (1): 1.47 (1xBet)
- Over 2.5 Goals: 1.65 (1xBet)
